“There will be evolution of our stance keeping in mind people-centric ties”: Misri on India’s visa operations in Bangladesh
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced a potential shift in the country’s visa operations regarding Bangladesh, acknowledging that current services fall short of pre-crisis levels due to security concerns stemming from events in the summer of 2024, reports 24brussels.
Misri outlined that India’s visa operations in Bangladesh remain among the largest globally despite facing challenges. The overall security situation influenced the number of services provided, which had to be adjusted in response to the turmoil seen during the July and August incidents last year. “Yes, it is not at the level at which it was before the events of July and August last year, but even today with the numbers that are there it remains one of our largest visa operations anywhere in the world,” he stated during a meeting with journalists from Bangladesh.
He refrained from assigning blame for the unrest but emphasized the need to focus on future relations. Misri noted that as conditions improved in Bangladesh, India has begun to increase its visa services. “I can assure you that as we move forward there will be an evolution of our stance with regard to this issue, keeping in mind exactly as you have said the people-centric relationship that we have,” he said.
Misri also confirmed India’s unwavering support for democratic processes in Bangladesh, stating, “If there is any doubt in anybody’s mind, India is firmly in favour of free, fair, inclusive, and participatory elections in Bangladesh.” He urged for these elections to be held as soon as feasible, expressing readiness to collaborate with any government that emerges with a popular mandate from the electorate.
The political climate in Bangladesh has been tumultuous, particularly after Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India amid violent protests led by students. Misri underscored that India’s response has been measured, actively adjusting its actions in accordance with the evolving situation on the ground.
